Our Volunteers

Meet Barb Hartnett

"I felt that Erie would be a very rewarding place to volunteer, and that has remained true to this day!"

Barb Hartnett started volunteering at Erie House in 2011 after attending several fundraising events with her husband, Dan, who is a member of the board of directors. “Simply writing a check—although so important and needed—does not make me feel involved,” she says. “I have the free time and want to use it in a valuable way.”

Her contribution of time and energy is indeed valuable. Barb volunteers once a week in the Rainbow Room, where she helps with preschool activities and assists with transitions, meals and preparations for naptime. “There is never a dull moment working with 3–5 year-olds,” she says.

Barb views the Erie House program as vital to the wellbeing of the enrolled children. “I have seen so many children change and grow in great ways after spending time in Rainbow Room,” she says, praising the teachers who help foster growth and learning at Erie House. “I cannot imagine these children starting kindergarten without the preschool experience.”